Local Cultural Conflicts and Power Domination in the Novel Orang Oetimu by Felix K. Nesi: Literary Anthroplogical Analysis

Abstract

This study examines local cultural conflicts and power dominance in the novel Orang-Orang Oetimu by Felix K. Nesi using a literary anthropological approach. The aim is to describe the forms of local cultural conflicts, power dominance, and the relationship between the two in representing the social reality of Timorese society. The method used is qualitative descriptive with data sources in the form of quotes, dialogues, narratives, and events in the novel. Data were collected through intensive reading, recording, classification, and analyzed based on a literary anthropological perspective. The results of the study show that local cultural conflicts are reflected through the weakening of customary authorities, changes in people’s attitudes towards traditional values, restrictions on the space for cultural expression, and distortions of cultural functions as a guideline for life. Meanwhile, the dominance of power is seen in the practices of social control, social control, the use of authority, and symbolic power that give birth to a culture of fear, silence, and obedience. This study concludes that power dominance is the main factor that drives local cultural change and marginalization. Through the novel, the struggle of the Timorese people in maintaining their cultural identity in the midst of power pressure is depicted, as well as presenting social criticism of practices that weaken local culture.